Proverbs 17:11

An evil man seeketh only rebellion: therefore a cruel messenger shall be sent against him.
– Proverbs 17:11

This proverb emphasizes the principle of sowing and reaping, so seeking rebellion will find a cruel messenger. The word for messenger can include the idea of a deputy. In this sense, the messenger is sent from the king with avenging authority (Proverbs 16:14). In the broader theme of sowing and reaping in the Proverbs, it is clear that those who pursue evil will find it upon themselves (Proverbs 1:18; 5:22-23).

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